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Dallas Roof Repair: Frequently Asked Questions

We get a lot of questions from time to time on issues related to roofing. We’d like to share some of the most common ones and give you some answers. Remember that we’re here for you! Call us anytime for info on how we can help with your roofing needs!

What are the most common roof problems?

Leaks are some of the most common issues people have with their roofs, but leaks themselves are symptoms of a larger problem with your roof. The problem itself could potentially be any of a number of things.

Improper or worn flashing is a fairly common roofing issue. Flashing is the sealing that’s applied around vents, flues, chimneys and other vulnerable points on your roof. These points are flashed for a reason – they’re the most likely to spring leaks and therefore require extra attention to ensure water can’t enter. Sometimes flashing simply gets old, wears, rusts or otherwise ages and fails. Other times a less-than-detail-oriented roofer may perform a poor job with their flashing efforts. Particularly vicious weather may also loosen or tear off flashing or shingles over the years.

Pooling of water at valleys, low points or areas with inadequate draining on roofs is another common roof issue that can eventually lead to more serious problems down the line, such as structural damage caused by water leaks and rot.

Homeowners frequently forget about the risk tree limbs pose when they overhang the roof. Trees not only give rodents and other animals an easy point of access, they can also rub against your shingles and wear off the granule layer of protection. Limbs can even snap off during a high-wind storm and damage your roof.

Why is my roof leaking?

Failed flashing, as previously discussed, is one of the most common causes of roof leaks.

Underneath your shingles is an underlayment, often composed of felt, which is stretched over a deck, usually made of plywood. If shingles are missing and the underlayment and deck are exposed to rain, water will eventually leak through. Hail can also damage shingles and the layers below, potentially creating vulnerable spots where prolonged exposure to rain will eventually result in leaking.

In addition to failed flashing and damaged shingles, you may have cracked vent booting/cases, improperly installed or broken skylights, a cracked chimney or some other defective feature or addition to your roof that is malfunctioning.

Another often overlooked maintenance issue that could eventually result in roof leaks are clogged gutters, which could eventually result in overflowing and pooling along the edges of your roof.

Flat roofs and those with very shallow grades are more prone to water pooling, which may eventually result in leaks.

Can I repair my roof myself?

Performing roof repairs yourself can be difficult. Diagnosing an issue isn’t always a simple matter, and properly repairing the issue without the proper equipment can be tricky. Replacing a shingle isn’t as easy as going on your roof with a spare shingle, a hammer, and some nails. That approach will likely result in more holes through which water can penetrate. The act of simply walking on your roof can also cause damage by rubbing off shingle granules or otherwise dislodging shingles. The less often roofs are walked upon, the better.

DIY fixes also risk your own safety. Approximately 40 percent of construction fatalities are attributed to professionals falling off roofs, and those are generally people who are experienced in the industry.1

Lastly, if your roof is under warranty, you run the risk of voiding it by attempting to repair issues yourself.

How much does roof replacement/reroofing cost, and what type of roof is best for my home?

The cost of reroofing can vary drastically based on the type of roof. The national average is $7,255, with the typical price ranging from $5,114 to $9,749.2 The size of your roof and the material you choose are the most significant contributing factors to cost.

Although more expensive, materials like metal, tile, and slate typically last longer than standard asphalt shingles and provide energy-efficiency benefits thanks to their improved insulation value. Not having to repair or replace your roof as frequently can also provide cost savings over the years.

The contractor you choose will also have an impact on cost, but keep in mind hiring an inexperienced, cheap roofing contractor could result in added repair or replacement costs sooner than you’d expect. In short, you get what you pay for.

How do I find a good roofer?

You should always do your research before hiring a roofing contractor. Certifications, industry memberships, and reputation are all important indicators of a roofing contractor’s quality.

At Aspenmark Roofing & Solar, we’re confident in our abilities and reputation thanks to thousands of satisfied customers in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. We’ve been recognized as one of the nation’s top roofers, as evidenced by our GAF Master Elite status. Only the top five percent of roofers, as measured by an array of key factors, qualify for Master Elite status, and we’re proud of this hard-earned reputation. This certification also allows us to offer our roofing clients one of the best warranties in the industry.

It’s never a bad idea to get estimates and speak with several roofers before choosing one, but we encourage you to make Aspenmark Roofing & Solar one of the roofing contractors you consider. Contact us online or call us at 214-823-7663 to schedule your estimate.